Getting the nutrients your body needs is a major step in keeping the immune system healthy. In addition, here are eight actions that can defend you against the viruses that cause colds and flu.
1. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
2. Get at least 30 minutes of exercise daily, if possible.
3. Get enough sleep.
4. Wash your hands.
5. Keep up with your vaccinations. Almost everyone should get a flu vaccine every year.
6. Keep your weight healthy.
7. Don’t drink too much alcohol.
8. Don’t smoke.
Short bursts of stress may help your immune system, but lasting stress is a problem which can hamper the immune system. Six actions to tame stress begin with getting sufficient sleep. Other actions include learning and using relaxation techniques, exercising, taking time for yourself, building a support network of people you can talk to and considering counseling when going through a stressed period.